Akiya Gathering vol.2
An online event for foreigners to learn about and discuss Japan’s vacant houses @ Zoom Meeting
Event Overview
Description
Curious about Japan’s akiya (vacant houses) but not sure where to start?
Join us for an open, friendly discussion with experts who have been revitalizing vacant homes across Japan.
Makigumi Inc., a social enterprise based in Ishinomaki (Miyagi, Tohoku), has transformed numerous akiya into guesthouses, shared houses, and community hubs. At this event, Makigumi will introduce real cases and practical insights into how vacant homes can be reused and reimagined.
Whether you are simply curious or already considering purchasing a property in Japan, everyone with an interest in akiya is welcome.
Let’s casually talk about how to find, renovate, and make use of Japan’s vacant homes — this time in an online format, making it accessible from anywhere.
Date & Time
Wednesday, November 19, 2025 19:00–21:00 (JST)
Admission
Free of charge
Capacity
Approximately 30 participants
How to Apply
Please complete your registration through the event page.
Who Should Join
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Foreigners interested in Japan’s vacant houses (akiya)
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Foreigners considering purchasing property in Japan
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People interested in creative reuse and community-based living
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Those curious about running guesthouses in Japan
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People interested in rural Japan, Tohoku, or Ishinomaki
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Anyone interested in Japan’s regional lifestyles and housing options
Speaker
Kyoko Watanabe – CEO, Makigumi Inc.
While studying in graduate school, Kyoko experienced the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and began on-site support activities in Ishinomaki. She later relocated permanently and founded Makigumi Inc. in 2015, converting vacant houses into shared spaces for young people.
Her work focuses on revitalizing Ishinomaki’s city center and creating new mechanisms to utilize aging real estate. She is also a board member of ISHINOMAKI2.0, a former lecturer at Tohoku University of Art & Design (2016–2019), and the recipient of the City Planning Institute of Japan’s Planning and Design Award for the “COMICHI Ishinomaki” project. She also won the Grand Prize in the DBJ Women’s New Business Plan Competition.
【Makigumi Website】
How to Apply
To participate, please register through the event page